What the Research Says
Proving the impact of girls' schools through decades of global research
Since its founding, the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools has been grounded in research and inspired by collaboration.
ICGS was built on the belief that girls’ schools would be strengthened by rigorously researching and promoting the qualitative and quantitative outcomes of all-girl learning environments.
Today, our research initiatives continue to illuminate how girls learn best — and why girls' schools remain vital for developing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
Research Focus Areas
Our research explores the distinct advantages of girls' school environments, including:
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Academic Achievement
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Confidence and Self-Efficacy
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Leadership Development
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Global Citizenship
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Well-Being and Resilience
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Engagement in STEM Fields
Girls' schools create the learning conditions for:
ICGS Studies
Our original studies are trusted by educators, families, and researchers worldwide.
Raising Her Voice: How Girls’ Schools Empower Students to Speak Up and Speak Out (2024)
A global study of girls’ school students and alumnae conducted with Stanford University's Challenge Success.
The Positive Effects of the Girls’ School Environment: An Analysis of PISA Data (2023)
Findings showing consistently more positive outcomes for students in girls’ schools compared to coeducational settings.View Report
A large-scale study showing higher academic engagement, civic involvement, and self-confidence among girls’ school graduates.
Steeped in Learning: The Student Experience at All-Girls Schools (2015)
A comprehensive look at the culture of achievement, leadership development, and mentorship found at girls' schools.